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Squash, Pistachio, and Quinoa Salad

Squash and quinoa cooked in the microwave, combined with pistachios made using the glass Anyday dish, offering a satisfying mix of textures and flavors. Enjoy a quick and nutritious meal, ready in minutes.
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Prep Time

10 mins

Cook Time

10-12 mins

Free Time

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Squash, Pistachio, and Quinoa Salad

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Once you try this easy grain salad, you're going to want to make it again and again. Cook quinoa, squash and broccoli all in one dish, then toss with fresh greens and pistachios and drizzle with a tangy dijon mustard-balsamic dressing.

All of Anyday’s recipes are tested (and retested!) in many different microwave and home kitchens to make sure they work— and work well. Unless specified otherwise, all recipes should be cooked at full power.

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Select your serving size and microwave wattage in the dropdown. The recipe will change accordingly.

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Select your microwave wattage in the dropdown. The cook times in this recipe will automatically change accordingly.

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To find your microwave’s wattage, look at the front panel, the side of the door, in the back, in the user manual, or Google the model number. If both an input and output wattage are listed, use the output.

Wattage translates to how powerful the microwave is. The higher the wattage, the faster your food will cook. The lower the wattage, the longer the cook time.

When in doubt, start with less time — you can always add more.

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Dish

The Medium Deep Dish

Ingredients

  • ½ cup (90g)  quinoa
  • ¾ cup (180ml) water
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup (60g) kabocha or any winter squash, peeled and diced 
  • ½ cup (45g) broccoli florets, fresh or frozen
  • ½ tablespoon parsley, finely chopped
  • ½ tablespoon mint, thinly sliced
  • 1 tablespoon toasted pistachios, roughly chopped
  • 1 teaspoon dijon mustard
  • 1½ tablespoons balsamic, apple cider,or rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Arugula, watercress or spinach

Preparation

  1. Place the quinoa in an Anyday dish and rinse thoroughly under cold tap water. Using the Anyday Strainer, strain the excess water.
  2. After straining, add the water, oil, salt, squash, and broccoli florets into the Anyday dish and mix to combine. Cover with the lid (knob lifted).
  3. Cook in the microwave at Power Level 8
    ✕

    Certain foods cook best in the microwave at lower power levels. 

    [[video-power]]

    Different microwaves have different settings. See your microwave manual (or look it up online) to learn how to change your microwave’s power level.

    For many microwaves: enter the cook time, press the “Power” (or “Power Level”) button, and select a number between 1-10. Other microwaves may require selecting the Power Level first, and then entering the cook time.

    Microwaves list power levels in different ways. Here’s a guide to help you adjust:

    PL 10 = 100% = High (default)

    PL 9 = 90% = High

    PL 8 = 80% = Med-High

    PL 7 = 70% = Med-High

    PL 6 = 60% = Medium

    PL 5 = 50% = Medium

    PL 4 = 40% = Med-Low

    PL 3 = 30% = Med-Low

    PL 2 = 20% = Low

    PL 1 = 10% = Low

    You will know if the power level has been successfully changed if you hear periodic changes in the microwave’s tone after it begins cooking.

     for 10-12 minutes.
  4. Rest covered for 2-5 minutes. Fold in the remaining ingredients and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Suggestions

  • Chilled option: For a refreshing cold salad, let the cooked ingredients cool completely before combining with the remaining ingredients.
  • Veggie swap: Swap in cauliflower, snow peas, zucchini, or bell peppers for a colorful and crunchy twist on the original vegetables.
  • Cheesy boost: Add crumbled feta or goat cheese for a tangy, creamy layer that complements the earthy flavors.
  • Avocado slices: Top with sliced avocado for creamy richness and added healthy fats, balancing the crunchy pistachios and quinoa.
  • Discover more whole-grain recipes by exploring our collection here!

Recipe Notes

  • Cook the quinoa ahead of time and season as needed.
  • Microwave ovens vary, even with the same wattages. Adjust cooking times as needed

All You Need to Know About Making Squash, Pistacchio, and Quinoa Salad in the Microwave

What is squash, pistachio, and quinoa salad?

Squash, Pistachio, and Quinoa Salad is a hearty grain-based salad that combines cooked quinoa, roasted squash, broccoli, and fresh greens. It's topped with crunchy pistachios and drizzled with a tangy Dijon mustard-balsamic dressing, making it a nutritious and flavorful dish perfect for any meal.

Can I cook quinoa and squash in the microwave?

Absolutely! Using an Anyday dish, you can quickly cook quinoa, squash, and broccoli in the microwave about three times faster compared to traditional methods. This microwave-friendly method ensures even cooking and saves time, making it perfect for preparing a quick and delicious salad.

Why use quinoa in this recipe?

Quinoa adds a nutritious, protein-packed base to the salad, with a light, fluffy texture and a subtle nutty flavor. It pairs perfectly with the roasted squash, broccoli, and tangy dressing, making it an ideal grain for this microwave-friendly dish.

How long can I store squash, pistachio, and quinoa salad in the fridge?

This salad can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days in an Anyday dish. Once the salad is ready, allow it to cool, then cover it with the Anyday lid and refrigerate. The silicone edge on the lid helps keep the salad fresh and flavorful. You may consider keeping the pistachios on the side and garnishing the salad with each serving, as they will soften in the fridge.

Can I freeze squash, pistachio, and quinoa salad?

Yes, you can freeze this quinoa salad. Use our silicone Anytime Freezer Trays to freeze the quinoa, squash, and broccoli (without the seasoning) for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy, place the frozen salad components in an Anyday dish and reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes per portion. Once warmed, toss with the fresh herbs, pistachios, and dressing for a quick, flavorful meal. For more tips on freezing and reheating, check out our blog here.

What’s the best way to reheat squash, pistachio, and quinoa salad?

The best way to reheat this salad is to reheat the quinoa, squash, and broccoli in the microwave using an Anyday dish. Reheat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through until heated. You can then toss it with the fresh greens and dressing, or enjoy it slightly warm.

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